Tierney returns to Arsenal squad after five-month injury

Kieran Tierney (left) is back in full training with Arsenal

Scotland defender Kieran Tierney has ended a five-month injury absence after being named in Arsenal's first-team squad for the London's club's Champions League visit to Sporting on Tuesday.

The 27-year-old has been sidelined since June after suffering a hamstring tear against Switzerland at Euro 2024 but has been out of favour under manager Mikel Arteta since summer 2023.

The Spaniard told Monday's media conference in Lisbon: "We have Kieran Tierney with us after a long injury.

"It’s great news that he is back. He's been training with us and he is available to participate."

Tierney has not played for Arsenal since a substitute appearance in their penalty shoot-out Community Shield victory over Manchester City after a 1-1 draw in August 2023.

Having fallen out of the first-team picture, he spent the rest of the season on loan to Real Sociedad, making 26 appearances for the La Liga side, but remains under contract with Arsenal until 2026.

Tierney has missed seven Scotland games since his latest injury, including all their Nations League group games.

The news of his return from injury comes two days after Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn's return to the Norwich City side after missing six club games and four internationals.

The 28-year-old helped the Canaries to a 2-2 draw away to West Bromwich Albion in the Championship after recovering from his rib injury.

Scotland next face a double header play-off against Greece in March as they aim to retain their place in League A.